KootK
Structural
- Oct 16, 2001
- 18,058
So there's this building with problems... It's getting new windows and patio doors and, in the process of exploring things, it's come to light that the jamb studs are generally woefully deficient. 3.625 26 gauge single studs all over for some pretty large openings.
Anyhow, one of these conditions is a patio door rather than a window. In my mind, this is a better situation than with the windows because, since the doors span from floor to ceiling and can slide, they must be able to span vertically. Therefore the jamb studs are almost redundant from a strength perspective. But, then, if the door and it's frame are designed for, say L/175, is that going to be a problem for the stucco adjacent to the door which would inevitably see some load?
Don't get me wrong, if this were all new construction I'd just beef up the jambs and think on it no more. It's not new construction though. And this decision will be the difference between messing with the envelope in this area and not having to do anything at all. Multiplied over a zillion patios (high rise), that's some real money.
Please advise. For what it's worth, there has has been no evidence of serviceability problems in the past.
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.
Anyhow, one of these conditions is a patio door rather than a window. In my mind, this is a better situation than with the windows because, since the doors span from floor to ceiling and can slide, they must be able to span vertically. Therefore the jamb studs are almost redundant from a strength perspective. But, then, if the door and it's frame are designed for, say L/175, is that going to be a problem for the stucco adjacent to the door which would inevitably see some load?
Don't get me wrong, if this were all new construction I'd just beef up the jambs and think on it no more. It's not new construction though. And this decision will be the difference between messing with the envelope in this area and not having to do anything at all. Multiplied over a zillion patios (high rise), that's some real money.
Please advise. For what it's worth, there has has been no evidence of serviceability problems in the past.
I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.
